Can pacemakers, neurostimulators, leads, or guide wires be MRI safe? Technological concerns and possible resolutions.

The substantial benefits of magnetic resonance imaging are often denied to patients known to have implanted medical devices such as pacemakers and neurostimulators. Other patients are put at potential risk when they undergo an MRI procedure, even though specific informed consent is required regarding the possible MRI interactions with the implanted device. The medical community is currently divided over the actual extent of the MRI safety problem.